Experience the best of Phillip Island: Wine, Wildlife & Penguins with Gourmet Feast
Imagine spending a day on Victoria’s magnificent Phillip Island, where you can sip fine wines, stroll past rugged coastlines, and end your day watching thousands of Little Penguins waddle back to their burrows at sunset. For just $109 per person, this 5-hour tour promises a rich mix of natural beauty, tasty food, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, all with the comfort of air-conditioned transport and a local guide who makes the experience lively and insightful.
What really sets this tour apart are the gourmet wine tasting at Phillip Island Winery, complete with a grazing platter, and the Golden Hour scenic lookout at the Nobbies, where the views are truly breathtaking. We also love how the tour guarantees window seats, so you’ll have prime vantage points for each scenic stop. My only small caveat is that with a packed itinerary, you might wish for a bit more time at each location—but that’s a fair trade-off for such a well-curated experience.
This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, gourmet food, and wildlife, especially those who appreciate guides who share their local knowledge with a touch of humor. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo but craving an authentic day out that’s both relaxed and packed with highlights, this tour ticks many boxes.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- All-inclusive experience: Wineries, wildlife, scenic views, and the Penguin Parade.
- Comfort and convenience: Pickup from your accommodation, WiFi, and a window seat guarantee.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable and friendly hosts like Russell and Sue who make the day fun.
- Stunning photo opportunities: Especially at the Nobbies during Golden Hour.
- Authentic wildlife viewing: Watching thousands of Little Penguins in their natural habitat.
- Value for money: For just over a hundred dollars, you get a full, varied day with multiple highlights.
If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Melbourne
A Detailed Look at the Phillip Island Experience
Convenient Pickup and Transport
We appreciate how this tour simplifies the logistics. With pickup from your accommodation on Phillip Island or San Remo, you avoid the hassle of driving and parking, making it perfect for travelers who prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery. The air-conditioned mini-bus is comfortable, especially after a day outdoors, and the WiFi onboard helps you share your photos or check your messages. The window seat guarantee means everyone gets a decent view, whether you’re snapping photos of the coastline or scanning for wildlife.
The Winery Visit: Sipping and Grazing
The first major stop is the Phillip Island Winery. Here, we loved the Cellar Door tasting, which offers a selection of local wines. The grazing platter is a delightful addition, featuring local cheeses, meats, and accompaniments, turning the tasting into a true sensory experience. Several reviewers, like Shelby, mention the delicious wine and food as the highlight of their day, with one even joking about the tour guide’s nicknames—like Ray Gun and Rayzor Scooter—adding a personal touch.
This stop isn’t just about drinking wine; it’s about appreciating the craftsmanship behind Victoria’s wine region while enjoying fabulous local produce. The private tasting gives you a chance to ask questions and learn about the local wine scene from friendly staff.
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Drive and the Nobbies
After the winery, the tour takes you along a scenic route that showcases Phillip Island’s rugged coastlines and natural beauty. The Nobbies are a must-see, especially during Golden Hour. We loved the scenic lookout, where the setting sun casts a warm glow over the rocks and water below. The boardwalk walk here offers a close-up view of seals, seabirds, and other wildlife, making it a favorite among reviewers who appreciate native fauna.
Reviewers like GetYourGuide travelers note that they managed to see amazing sunset views at the Nobbies, making it a perfect photo stop. The golden light amplifies the wild beauty of the coast, giving you that postcard moment.
While in Melbourne, here are other experiences we've covered
- From Melbourne: Ballarat Wildlife Park & Sovereign Hill Tour
- From Melbourne: Penguins and Wildlife Nature Day Tour
- From Melbourne: Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Wildlife Tour
- Full-Day Private Australian Wildlife Tour of Phillip Island
- From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Steam Train & Wildlife Tour
- Great Ocean Road and Wildlife Day Tour
Wildlife Encounters: The Penguin Parade
The finale of the tour is the world-famous Penguin Parade. You’ll watch thousands of tiny Little Penguins waddle ashore at sunset, a spectacle that’s both cute and awe-inspiring. The general viewing entry allows you to witness this natural event without the crowds that sometimes flock to more commercial tours, yet it still feels intimate thanks to the well-organized setup.
Melissa from Australia describes the Penguin Parade as “magical,” and many reviews highlight how guides like Sue enhance the experience with engaging stories and tips. Be aware that only guests 18+ can consume wine, but anyone can enjoy the penguins’ charming return home.
Flexibility and Value
For a total of about five hours, this tour covers major sights and offers a blend of scenic beauty, wildlife, and gourmet food. The price includes all entry fees, tastings, lunch, and transport, making it a good value. Reviews emphasize the quality of the guides, with Russell and Sue singled out for their friendliness, knowledge, and sense of humor.
What Travelers Are Saying
The consistent praise from past travelers paints a clear picture: knowledgeable guides make the day richer, the views are unforgettable, and the food and wine are well worth the price. Lafayete Fantossi mentions the friendly staff, and Oscar from Guatemala appreciated the super friendly guide, showing the tour’s international appeal.
Considerations
While the tour hits many highlights, it’s quite full-paced, leaving little time at each stop. If you’re hoping to linger longer at the winery or the penguins, you might find the schedule tight. Also, since wine consumption is limited to 18+, families with younger children might prefer a different experience for the wildlife or scenic parts.
Who Should Take This Tour?
This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want to see a variety of Phillip Island’s charms in a short time, without the hassle of planning details themselves. Wine lovers will appreciate the private tasting and gourmet lunch, and nature enthusiasts will enjoy the wildlife viewing and scenic vistas. It’s also a good choice for those looking for a comfortable, guided experience with knowledgeable hosts who keep things lively.
Final Thoughts
In a nutshell, the Phillip Island: Wine, Wildlife & Penguins with Gourmet Feast tour offers an excellent value for those wanting a well-rounded taste of this iconic destination. The combination of scenic coastal views, delicious local wines, and the enchanting penguin parade creates a memorable day—whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Victoria.
You’ll love the friendly guides who share their knowledge and humor, the stunning sunset views at the Nobbies, and the chance to get close to native Australian wildlife. The gourmet lunch and wine tasting add a layer of indulgence that elevates the experience beyond simply sightseeing.
This tour is perfect if you want a guided, all-in-one day trip that captures the essence of Phillip Island, leaving you with lasting impressions of its natural beauty and charming wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a minimum age for wine tasting?
Yes, only people 18+ are permitted to consume wine, per Victorian law. However, younger travelers can still enjoy the scenic spots and wildlife.
What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers entry to the Penguin Parade, wine tasting and grazing platter at the winery, gourmet lunch, Golden Hour experience at the Nobbies, wildlife viewing, all transfers, and a local guide.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 5 hours, with specific start times depending on availability. Pickup times are confirmed by the tour operator on the day.
Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned mini-buses with window seat guarantees, ensuring a pleasant ride with great views.
Can I expect to see wildlife other than penguins?
Absolutely. The Nobbies and other stops are great for spotting seals, seabirds, and other native animals.
What is the best time to enjoy the sunset at the Nobbies?
The Golden Hour at sunset offers the most stunning views—timing adjusts daily, but your guide will aim to optimize this.
Are vegetarian or special dietary options available?
While not explicitly stated, the gourmet lunch and grazing platter are likely to accommodate most dietary preferences. It’s best to check directly with the provider.
How personalized is the experience?
Guides like Russell and Sue are praised for their friendly, informative, and engaging manner, making the tour feel personalized and lively.
What if I need to cancel?
Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.
This carefully curated tour offers a wonderful slice of Phillip Island’s natural and culinary delights—perfect for those eager to combine wildlife encounters with tasting Victoria’s finest wines. Whether you’re snapping photos at the Nobbies or marveling at the penguins’ nightly parade, you’re sure to leave with a full heart and plenty of stories to tell.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Wildlife Experiences in Melbourne
- Melbourne Highlights & Aussie Wildlife Express Tour
- Phillip Island: Penguins and Wildlife Full-Day Tour
- From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train & Penguins Wildlife Tour
- Melbourne: Phillip Island Wildlife Tour & Penguin Parade
- Melbourne Zoo: Australian Wildlife Experience Ticket
- Melbourne: Great Ocean Road & Wildlife Tour for Backpackers
More Wine Tours in Melbourne
- 2-Day Yarra Valley Wine Tour with Luxury Vineyard Resort Stay
- Private Tour: Mornington Peninsula Wine, Beer & Hotsprings
- Melbourne: Yarra Valley Food & Wine Trip with 1 Wine Bottle
- Melbourne: Yarra Valley Wine, Gin, Cheese/Fruit & Choc Tour
- PRIVATE GROUP: Yarra Valley Private Wine Tour with Lunch
- Melbourne/Mornington: Peninsula Hot Springs and Winery Tour
More Tour Reviews in Melbourne
More Melbourne experiences we've covered
- 2-Day Yarra Valley Wine Tour with Luxury Vineyard Resort Stay
- Melbourne Sports Walk
- Sorrento: Dolphins & Seals Snorkeling Cruise w/ Lunch
- Melbourne: City`s History and Unique Bar Scene Tour
- Private Tour: Mornington Peninsula Wine, Beer & Hotsprings
- Melbourne: Private Melbourne City Tour with Stops
- Melbourne: Skydeck and Altitude Dining Experience
- Melbourne to Puffing Billy and Yarra Valley Private Tour
- From Melbourne: Reverse Great Ocean Road Day Trip with Lunch
- Phillip Island: Hike and Penguin Parade – 8 pax Small Tour
- Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Full Day Private Tour
- Phillip Island: Wine, Wildlife & Penguins with Gourmet Feast